Iceland is unlike any other destination you'll be travelling to because of not only the out-of-this-world scenery but with that, how dynamic, ever-changing, and unique the weather is. As a result, it's so important to know what to wear in Iceland or you'll be totally caught off guard.
Are waterproof pants necessary? How thick of a jacket do you need? What about swim suit? Keep reading to know what to pack for Iceland. And yes, a super helpful Iceland packing list is included below!
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Where to rent a car in Iceland?
- Learn how to rent a car in Iceland including exclusive coupon codes that you shouldn't miss.
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What is the weather like in Iceland?
So what is the deal with Icelandic weather and what makes it so different from anywhere else in Europe is that you can literally experience all 4 seasons on your trip. Moreover, you might even experience all seasons in one day like we did on our 8 day Iceland road trip.
Another thing to be aware of is that the weather can also be very different from the south of Iceland to the north in say Mývatn, Akureyri, or even all the way up in Hornstrandir.
Much of the climate in Iceland we refer to below are for in and around the Reykjavik area but there can be dramatic differences with the north. To give you an idea, there's a difference of -10°C or more.
In general, the south coast tends to be windier, wetter, and warmer whereas the north gets much more snow in the winter.
Summer season (mid-June – August)
Summer is a very popular time to go because this is when the climate is the fairest and more comfortable. This also coincides with Iceland's high season as a result. You can also call this the high season.
Not only do you have the benefit of nice weather, you also get the midnight sun where the sunlight never really full disappears. As a result, you have a lot more hours in the day to explore the beauty of its outdoors.
The peak temperatures are in July when average highs can be 13°C (55°F) and lows at 11°C (52°F). That said, some days could spike to higher temperatures too for those momentary t-shirt weather days.
Something to be aware of is that in June and August, temperatures can drop to average lows of 5.5°C (42°F) can be down to as that chilled, cool air sweeps in.
Precipitation is also quite low with an average of 20mm. This means that you might experience very light rain but nothing heavy.
From a travel perspective, while summer comes with a ton of benefits, the disadvantages are that the peak tourist season will draw larger crowds, higher prices, and activities selling out. With the long days, it also means that there is no chance of seeing the northern lights.
If you think about it, Iceland's summer season is more like spring weather for most people minus the rain.
Spring and Fall season (mid-May – mid-June, September – mid-October)
In traditional destinations, there's a sizeable shoulder season. In Iceland, this is the smallest window that has its pros and cons.
As with most shoulder seasons, this is a blend of the best of both primary seasons – the crowds dwindle, prices drop back down, you still get good sunlight, and there are good chances of seeing the northern lights.
Now if you thought summer wasn't that hot, you'll find these months to be chilly by most standards. The average high is 11°C (50°F) and the average low dives down to 2.2°C (36°F). At this point in the year, it's pretty rare for the temperature to exceed 15°C (59°F)
On the precipitation front, there's chance of rain and possibly even some snow (in September). In Reykjavik, average rainfall is approximately 42mm in May which isn't that much. September however brings in low-pressure systems that can cause strong winds and rain (up to 71mm). Resembling hurricane winds, you could see horizontal rain coming through.
Overall, the weather is subject to extreme change and is quite unpredictable so you have to be prepared.
Most Popular Car Rental Company in Iceland
Blue Car Rental is who we used when we did our 8 day Iceland itinerary and would definitely rent from them again. They're one of the most well-known brands on the island and have competitive rates.
Winter season (Mid-October – mid-May)
There's something magical about visiting Iceland in the winter. Traditionally considered as the low season, you'll be able to enjoy winter activities (such as these ice cave tours), hot springs, and brilliant displays of the aurora borealis.
The tradeoff of course is that these are the coldest months of the year, hovering around freezing. Gale force winds can blow through the island which feel very cold. Snow is also a factor as well as rain.
From October to February, precipitation is at its highest especially in the southern and western parts of the island.
In the coldest month of January, the average high is 2°C (36°F) and average low of -3°C (27°F). By the time April rolls around, temperatures increase to an average high of 5°C (41°F) and low of 0°C (32°F).
Daylight is also quite short in these months where you'll have between 4 to 7 hours to work with in January. By May, this goes up to 20+ hours.
Typically, outside of the capital and the southwest region, roads will be closed and impassable unless you have a 4-wheel drive vehicle. Even then, maximum caution is required.
Thanks to the Gulf Stream, warm weather helps keep the lower latitudes of Iceland from getting too cold. In fact, in looking at the average temperatures, you could say that what we get in Toronto or even in New York City in the winter is often worse than in Reykjavik.
That said, the winter season in Iceland isn't something you want to mess with as you could get rain, sleet, or snow. You'll most likely want to stick around the southern regions and drive very carefully.
Overview of weather in Iceland
Above all else, the weather in Iceland can change on a dime. I remember from our trip that in the same day in September, facing extreme rain, rainbows, strong sun, and northern lights. You really do need to be prepared for everything.
You might have read this on other articles about Iceland but it's totally true that “if you don't like the weather, wait 10 minutes”.
Lastly, the winters, while cold, is a lot less cold than you think it is and rarely dropping below freezing.
Planning a trip to Iceland?
Make sure to read our super guide to planning an Iceland itinerary including insider tips and things you just need to know before you go.
What to wear in Iceland
Now that you have an idea of the weather in Iceland, we can jump into what to wear in Iceland.
As you go through this list, keep in mind that the more complete Iceland packing list is below. In this section, we're spotlighting clothing that you should pay attention to.
What to wear in the summer
These are the warmest and longest days of the year but is by no stretch of the imagination hot.
The beauty of summer in Iceland is that the entire island is open to you including the northern passage of the ring road through Akureyri and of course, Westfjords.
You're going to hear this a lot but layers are truly your best friend. When you get active, you'll be able to wear a t-shirt but when temperatures drop, you'll be able to slip on additional layers to stay warm.
What to pack for summer in Iceland:
- Light layers – Bring a nice mix of t-shirts and thin long-sleeved shirts.
- Base layer – For those chilly breezes, cold nights, and up at higher altitude, a breathable layer (technical tee) like one by Smartwool. Ladies, think active leggings as well!
- Warm sweater or hoodie – Something wool or fleece that you can throw in and have ready inside the car is quite valuable like this full zip for men and women.
- Light outdoor pants – You'll be relying on these to power through all of the hiking you'll be doing. Ideally these are breathable and quick dry. I recently discovered convertible pants that are for the ultimate adventurer.
- Shorts – You won't use this as much as you think but bring one in case you get those really warm days.
- Swim suit – You'll need this for Blue Lagoon, and smaller hot springs.
- Lightweight waterproof jacket with hood – The keyword is waterproof as you won't really want to be travelling with an umbrella for a trip like this. This is something you can throw in your backpack without taking too much space and you can take out if you need the extra warmth or protection from rain. For women, the Marmot Precip Eco Jacket is also very good thanks to its armpit zippers and packability.
- Insulated jacket – If you get cold easily, you may want to opt for a thicket jacket.
- Hiking boots – You're going to be walking on all sorts of terrain in Iceland that can range from uneven gravel, mud, black sand, canyons, and mountainous inclines. Wear the Keen Targhee II for Men and Women is highly recommended.
- Hat or beanie/toque – While this might feel overkill for summer, the evenings will get chilly. This is also useful if you end up doing anything at higher altitudes, explore any caves/tunnels, or get hit with any extreme weather.
- Gloves – Like the above, these will keep your hands warm when the temperature drops.
If you are doing something like the Landmannalaugar trek or any sort of overnight camping, you should also look to pack:
- Long johns – I'd suggest a full merino base layer.
- Warm insulated jacket – Instead of just a waterproof shell, wear something like this Mountain Hardwear jacket.
Recommended summer tours
Whale Watching Tour from Reykjavik – Summer is the best time to see humpback whales, minke whales, and more in this incredible experience.
Lake Myvatn Tour from Akureyri – This is a must-see in the northern part of Iceland which is easiest to get to in the summer.
Puffin Watching Tour – Departing from Reykjavik, this tour guarantees you'll see puffins in the surrounding Faxaflói Bay, to two nearby islands, Lundey and Akurey.
Svalvogar Circle Sightseeing Tour – The Westfjords are only open in the summer and this tour takes you to one of the most spectacular places there.
Landmannalaugar Hiking Tour – The highlands of Iceland is simply breathtaking and open for passage in the summer but most people don't have time to do the multi-day trek so this 5-hour one is a great option for most visitors.
What to wear in the winter
The key to enjoying travelling to Iceland in the winter is to stay not only warm but also dry.
As you would've seen from the breakdown of the seasons, you'll know that Iceland doesn't often drop below freezing but you'll be faced with rain, snow, and cool winds that'll make it feel colder than you think.
Layers are your best friend again in this season. Start with a warm merino base layer and keep adding on warmer clothes to suit what you're doing.
Being the winter, snow and ice are all around so you'll need the right footwear to make sure you have good traction and don't have any accidents.
It's also worth nothing that not all bookable activities in Iceland come with all of the gear you need so pack appropriately if you're doing something like snowmobiling, whale watching, or ice caving.
It's much better to be over-prepared in the winter because there will be limited (affordable) options if you don't have enough to stay warm.
Best tips: Layer with wool, and be waterproof and windproof.
What to pack for winter in Iceland:
- Insulated waterproof and windproof jacket – There's a reason why Canada Goose parkas are used in the Arctic but for something more affordable, this Helly-Hansen or Columbia jacket.
- Thermal top – Smartwool makes a 250 crew base layer of 100% Merino Wool that will be an essential layer.
- Thermal underwear – A thicker Smartwool Merino 250 base layer is absolutely necessary.
- Fleece sweaters – Even better than fleece is a wool sweater. Icewear is a brand you'll find in Iceland that makes extremely warm sweaters.
- Skiing/snowboarding pants – Dust off your winter sports gear with pants like this insulated snowboard pant.
- Wool socks – Where you'll feel the cold the most is in your feet. This is why you'll want several heavy Smartwool socks.
- Waterproof boots – The difference with summer is that you need a proper boot like the Sorel Caribou for men and Winter Carnival for women.
- Ice cleats – Also known as ice grips, these slip over your shoes and gives you extra traction on snow and ice.
- Waterproof gloves – You'll need seriously warm and waterproof gloves in Iceland. I recommend these Gore-Tex gloves by Burton (men/women). That said, keep a touchscreen friendly pair of gloves as well if you'll be using the phone a lot or shooting northern lights at night.
- Neck gaiter – Instead of a traditional scarf, you need a polar BUFF.
- Beanie/toque – There are a ton of beanies/toques out there. Just find the one that you like and keeps you warm.
- Swim suit – You'll need this for Blue Lagoon, and smaller hot springs.
- Extra shoes – With all of the mud and melting snow on your boots, it's a good idea to have an extra set to change into for your hotel or just as a back up.
- Casual clothes – Now this will be different for everyone but it's a good idea to pack one set of clothes that you can wear at a restaurant or partying in Reykjavik.
TIP: Something that's also worth noting is that car rentals don't include ice scrapers or brushes. While not something you wear, it's a good idea to pack a small ice-scraper and foldable shovel.
Recommended winter tours
Ice Cave by Katla Volcano – Most ice caves are only accessible in the winter time so make sure to take advantage while you're in Iceland
Norhtern Lights Tour From Reykjavik – Get the experts to show you where you can see the northern lights in this 4-hour tour.
Ice Cave Tour and Glacier Hike – Combine two of the most exhilarating experiences in Iceland in one.
Viking Horse Riding in Winter – This is specifically an off-season tour in north Iceland where you'll have a chance to ride a horse in Iceland just like the Vikings did.
South Coast Day Tour in Winter – 10 hour minibus tour in south Iceland from Reykjavik.
What to wear in the shoulder season
Between winter and summer is a short shoulder season that brings in more volatile and changing weather conditions. In many ways, you need to be extra prepared during this time of the year when it comes to what to wear in Iceland.
What to pack for shoulder season in Iceland:
- Waterproof jacket – At the time, I wore an older version of the OutDry Ex Gold II Down Jacket which I still use today. It's a superb down-insulated jacket that's also waterproof.
- Layers – Beating a dead horse here but another reminder to have as many layer-able clothes as possible.
- Active pants – Having a good pair of hiking pants will be key.
- Waterproof pants – We experienced first hand the intense rain that Iceland can pour. You 100% need to have waterproof pants (men/women) with you in case you need to power through crazy weather. For this season, these should be shells that you can slip on or off in the car.
- Waterproof gloves – This sounds like overkill but wet and cold hands is not fun at all.
- BUFF – My go-to piece of travel gear is BUFF headwear. To find out why, make sure to read my full review of BUFF.
Iceland packing list
There's what to wear in Iceland and then there's everything else that accompanies the inner and outer wear. This packing list is less focused on the seasons and more on the gear you need to think about that applies all-year-round.
When you're exploring a country that boasts geysers, waterfalls, lava fields, canyons, icebergs, and volcanoes, as I've stressed all along, you want to be super prepared.
In the “land of fire and ice”, you'll spend some time in the capital Reykjavik but the rest of the time will be on the road which means you can't easily buy something if you happened to forget.
Read next: Curious what Icelandic souvenirs you should buy before you head home?
Essentials
Suitcase or backpack?
This is largely to each's own. Since you'll be renting a car in Iceland, you'll have the luxury of trunk space so there's no wrong answer.
The deciding factor may be the check-in luggage limitations of the airline you're flying with and whether you'll be doing any multi-day trekking such as the Laugavegurinn hike.
If you're able to travel light, I recommend a spacious carry-on like Samsonite's Tru-Frame which has built-in TSA combination locks. Their equivalent Tru-Frame medium check-in is also good if you're packing more.
What you need on top of your suitcase is a good day pack to carry all of your camera gear, water, snacks, and other on-the-go things. For that, Peak Design's Travel Backpack is my go-to. Otherwise, the Everyday Backpack 30L is excellent if you're looking for something a tad smaller.
Read this first: We have a full guide on how to rent a car in Iceland including secret car rental coupon codes.
Headlamp
You don't want to be stuck outside in the dark watching the northern lights and then clumsily holding your phone trying to make it back to your B&B or car. We found this also very helpful when we stayed at the Bubble Hotel. Make sure to pack a durable and insanely bright headlamp like the Fenix HM65R which we review.
If you're visiting in the winter, this is an absolute must because you'll be working with near darkness for a majority of the day.
Swimsuit and towel
Swimsuits have been mentioned a number of times and so hopefully you got the message that you should pack one for your trip. As you might've read from our 8 day Iceland itinerary, you'll know that we visited 3 different hot springs (Blue Lagoon, Secret Lagoon, and Seljavallalaug Pool).
Make sure to pack a quick dry towel that doesn't take up space.
TIP: The basic package at Blue Lagoon comes with a towel if that's the only hot spring you visit.
Flip flops
Going along with the above, having flip flops or sandals that you can use at these hot springs comes in handy in the change room and outside so you don't have to walk bare feet.
Read my full review of Rainbow flip flops and why they're the best. They're a bit trickier to get outside of the US so Amazon is going to be your best bet.
Camera
The scenery in Iceland is stunning and absolutely deserves to be captured. Some of you will be fine to use your smartphone while others will want to capture the experience on the GoPro Hero 9, or a camera system like the one I use which is the Olympus micro four-thirds (mirrorless).
I currently shoot with the Olympus OM-D EM-1 Mark 3 with the Panasonic 10-25mm being my workhorse for both photo and video.
For those that use a GoPro, think ahead about the type of mounts you'll want to use for activities like Snorkeling Silfra or Ice Climbing.
If you plan on shooting any milky waterfalls or the northern lights, a tripod is a must. For that, I recommend the Peak Design Travel Tripod in carbon fiber.
Read next: Learn how to shoot the northern lights with your camera before you go.
Drone
If there's one thing that I wish I had, when we did our 8 day road trip in Iceland, is a drone. Learning how to fly the DJI Mavic drone is really easy.
Make sure to read the drone laws in Iceland but the good news is that it's not complicated – stay 2 kilometers from airports and don't fly above 120 meters.
Packing cubes
When you think about minimalist travel packing tips, using packing cubes is crucial. If you don't own any yet, Peak Design packing cubes and Eagle Creek Compression Sacs help keep you organized so you know exactly where your clothing is without having to rummage around.
USB car charger
You'll be spending a lot of time in your car and as much as having a power bank is useful, a USB car charger with dual ports that are capable of quick charge is actually even more important.
Since practically everything can be charged via USB, you'll be able to charge not only your phones but also your camera, drone, and wifi hotspot such as Skyroam.
Stay connected with Pokefi
A worthy competitor to Skyroam is the lesser-known Pokefi. Use code GAP22231 to save $25 USD on a Starter Package that comes with an extra battery. Pokefi has great coverage in Iceland.
Iceland power adapter
Iceland uses the standard two-prong European outlet. As a result, make sure you have the right adapter or one of those universal plug adapters for your devices which you'll be able to use at your hotel or B&B.
Buy either a few of these to make sure you can charge multiple devices or get a travel power bar.
Travel insurance for Iceland
Don't travel to Iceland without any travel insurance. This is one of those places in the world where because of the remote nature of the destination and the type of activities you'll be doing, you really want to make sure you have the right coverage around adventure activities and medical evacuation as well.
I get it though, travel insurance is complicated and they don't make it easy to figure out what you actually need. That's why I put together an article on where and how to buy travel insurance.
If you're too lazy to read it all, the gist of it is that World Nomads is going to be your best bet if you're looking to do any adventure activities because their range of sports covered is so vast. You'll then want to top up your insurance with something like MedJet. Lastly, don't discount the travel insurance that comes with your credit card but make sure you read through what's covered.
Read next: Find out which are the best Canadian credit cards for travel hackers.
Sunglasses
You'll regret it if you forget to bring your sunglasses because the sun can be pretty strong when it's out. My go-to sunglasses are all by Maui Jim these days. I'm currently rocking the Chee Hoo.
Why Maui Jim opposed to some of the other bigger brands like Oakley, Ray-Ban, and Persol? My friends that are optometrists have said that industry-wide, everyone know that Maui Jim makes the best polarized lenses on the market.
Sunscreen
While the temperatures might be cold, that doesn't mean the UV rays aren't penetrating. Make sure you have sunscreen for your face to make sure you're protected.
My go-to is Sun Bum 50SPF which I've adopted since learning about reef-friendly sunscreen.
Moisture wicking underwear
For men and women I swear by ExOfficio. I've said in my review of ExOfficio underwear that it's the only kind you'll need when you travel. They are moisture wicking, odour-resistant, quick to dry, lightweight, and most importantly, comfortable.
For what to wear in Iceland, this should be in everyone's suitcase and hand wash them along the way.
Chapstick and moisturizer
Iceland can get pretty dry and depending on how sensitive your skin is, you will start to feel it almost immediately upon landing.
Rain cover for your backpack
This one is probably the easiest one to forget in your quest to weatherproof everything. Ironically, this is one of the most important things to protect from the rain because that's where your camera and other tech gear is.
Buy the right size rain cover for your backpack.
Optional extras
Thinking about some of the things we packed for our trip and all the various seasons, here are a couple things that you might want to consider!
Snacks
I'm not going to lie, everything is expensive in Iceland including food and groceries. If you're cost-conscious, I highly recommend that you load up all the extra space in your suitcase and backpack with snacks from home. This can be anything from trail mix, granola bars, and chocolate.
Hand and toe warmers
I've had varied success with these but when things get really cold they will give you that extra oomph of warmth you need. Simply stuff HotHands in an inner jacket pocket for body warmth or right into your glove. They also have HotHands toe warmers which did come in handy for Carnival in Quebec City.
Sleeping mask
In the summer, it never gets fully dark. Without blackout shades, it might feel like you're sleeping in dalight.
If you know this will be a problem, make sure to pack one like this Sea to Summit mask.
Reuseable bags and Ziploc
The best way to save money on food as I cover in our Iceland itinerary and guide is to buy your own groceries at the discount store, Bonus (just look for the pink piggy). Bags cost extra here so do the environment and your wallet a favor here.
Ziploc bags can be handy for when you make your own sandwiches. Pack a few of these from home in case you need them.
What not to pack for Iceland
Perhaps an easier approach to building an Iceland packing list is to break down things you should leave at home.
- Pack light – Overall, it's always an advantage to bring less. Sure, you'll have the advantage of a car as you explore Iceland but since yo'll be likely on the move a lot, you'll want the exercise of unpacking and re-packing into the car to be as simple as possible. Also, with all of the rugged outdoor things you'll be doing, you can easily get away with wearing the same few layers over many days.
- Jewelry – Not that there's a problem with theft here, this is less of a posh city experience and more of a trip where you'll be either in the car driving or out hiking and facing the elements. My wife opted for basic jewelry and make up for this trip so leave the expensive things at home.
- Cash – Iceland is a credit-card friendly country. If you feel nervous about this, you can withdraw ISK in Reykjavik at the beginning of your trip (10,000 ISK at most) but there's no need to do this beforehand.
- Umbrella – If you have the appropriate waterproof gear, there's really no need to bring an umbrella which is really not useful with sideways windy rain and when you're hiking.
Final thoughts on what to wear in Iceland
Hopefully I haven't freaked you out but my aim for this piece was to really inform you on all the things I wish I knew in terms of what to wear in Iceland before I went.
Don't make the same mistake we made where my wife literally had to fashion a waterproof skirt but cutting a clear plastic bag. The rain was that crazy in September!
This isn't like your average trip to Europe so forget about being fashionable.
Be super prepared with lots of warm layers and full waterproofing.
Counter all of those thick layers by packing fewer multiples of each thing because you know a ton of those mid layers can be worn multiple times and hand wash your clothes along the way.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, you absolutely need waterproof clothes no matter what season you're there. Weather in Iceland can change on a dime so be prepared and have these ready in case it does literally go sideways.
A popular clothing store you might see around the island is 66 North. This is where locals shop and your best bet for outdoor gear.
The short answer is no. Even at the peak of summer, average highs will be 13°C (55°F). While you might be able to pull off a t-shirt when exerting a lot of energy outdoors, you'll still want to make sure you have a ton of layers to keep you warm.
This is not recommended as they're not great as activewear, are terrible in wet weather, and take up a lot of space.
Summer (mid-June to August) is always a great time to go because of the warmer weather, easy access to the entire island, and midnight sun but I say September to early October is a great time to go because it's not quite winter yet, prices are lower, there are less crowds, and you have a chance to see the northern lights.
No, you won't be able to see the northern lights in the summer because the sky never gets fully dark because of the long days
With Iceland's rugged terrain, you'll want a solid pair of waterproof hiking shoes with good traction and is something you've broken in as well. In the winter, upgrade these to waterproof hiking boots for additional warmth.
If you plan on going to any of the hot springs in Iceland such as Blue Lagoon, make sure you pack a swimsuit. A quick-dry towel is also handy for the smaller hot springs such as Secret Lagoon and Seljavallalaug Pool. Some hotels and B&Bs have hot tubs too!
They're quite the fashionable bunch and closely resembles other Nordic countries. In Reykjavik, locals dress smartly with a smart jacket, jeans, and sneakers. However, once you're outside the capital, you're usually looking at wool sweaters, brightly coloured weatherproof jackets, and hiking boots.
The coldest month of January has an average low of average low of -3°C (27°F). This may not sound incredibly cold but it is thanks to the wind chill factor where it could feel like -20°C (-4°F). However, you will be probably surprised to hear that for the most part, Iceland hovers just above freezing in the winter.
What you should read next
Travel Planning Resources
If you're in the process of planning your trip and putting together your itinerary, these are genuinely the best resources that the Going Awesome Places team stands by 100%.
Flights: Of all the booking search engines, Skyscanner is the most helpful and easy to use thanks to their Everywhere feature.
Car Rental: If you're looking to save money, these car rental coupon codes will be a true game-changer. Otherwise, DiscoverCars and RentalCars are great places to start.
Hotels: Our go-to is always Booking.com because they have such an amazing inventory of properties including hotels and B&Bs. Tripadvisor is also useful for reviews and bookings.
Apartment Rentals: Airbnb is the market leader but you'd be surprised how you can find cheaper deals on the lesser-known VRBO.
Travel Insurance: Learn how to buy the best travel insurance for you. This isn't something you want to travel without.
- World Nomads – Frequent travelers and adventure sports
- RATESDOTCA – Canadians looking for the cheapest insurance including multi-trip annual
- SafetyWing – Best for nomads
- Medjet – Global air medical transportation
- InsureMyTrip – Best for seniors, families, and those with pre-existing conditions
If you need more help planning your trip, make sure to check out our Travel Toolbox where we highlight all of the gear, resources, and tools we use when traveling.
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